Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Reverend Robert Lee Barley, Sr.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:21 (KJV)

Before the sun rose on Sunday, October 25, 2026, our beloved Reverend Robert Lee Barley, Sr., age 82, peacefully transitioned from his earthly life into eternal rest, surrounded by the love and presence of his family at Duke University Hospital in Durham,North Carolina.

Born on March 13, 1944, in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, Robert was the beloved son of the late Mary Jane Hamm and Otis Childress.

For 64 years, Reverend Barley and his beloved wife, Ellen Barksdale Barley, shared a life built on faith in God, commitment, and devotion to one another. They began their journey together at a young age, trusting God as they built their home, raised their children, and kept their family close. Their marriage reflected the biblical truth that two become one, standing together through life’s seasons. Until the Lord called him home, Ellen remained by her husband’s side, faithful to the bond and commitment they had shared throughout their life together.

Robert understood the importance of education, hard work, and perseverance. He earned his General Educational Development (GED) diploma from Danville Community College and continued his educational journey through Middle College. He also obtained a certificate in Auto Body Mechanics, reflecting his passion for automobiles and his natural ability to work with his hands.

In 1968, Robert began his career with Lane Company, where he dedicated 36 years of faithful service as a supervisor. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to his responsibilities. From 1984 to 1986, Rev. Robert Lee Barley served as a volunteer with the 640 Community Rescue Squad in the Riceville/Java community. During this time, he earned his Emergency Medical Services (EMS) certification, reflecting his commitment to helping others and serving his neighbors with care and compassion.

In March 1997, Robert answered God’s calling upon his life and obtained his ministerial license at Riceville Baptist Church. Reverend Barley continued his service as an Associate Minister at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Blairs, VA, under the leadership of Reverend Reginald Carter.

Beyond his professional career and ministry, Robert was a man of many interests, memorable conversations, and unforgettable stories. One of his greatest passions was his love for fast cars. He enjoyed working on automobiles, making repairs, and putting his mechanical knowledge and skills to use. His interest in cars was more than a hobby; it was something that brought him genuine enjoyment. Robert also enjoyed fishing, watching sports, classic TV shows, and movies. As a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, he proudly supported his favorite football team.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother whose love was reflected in his actions, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to those closest to him. Reverend Robert Lee Barley, Sr. leaves to cherish his precious memories his beloved wife, Ellen Barksdale Barley of the residence; and his seven children: Rachel B. Williams (the late Reverend Kurt Williams) of Yanceyville, NC, Robert L. Barley, Jr. of Reidsville, NC, Erica L. Poindexter of Ruffin, NC, Tara D. Rasberry of Greensboro, NC, Sophia L. Barley of Gastonia, NC, Tangela T. Bowman of Danville, VA, and Tiffany S. Barley of Kannapolis, NC. His legacy continues through his 18 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, LaTarius Rasberry. He also leaves one beloved aunt, Geneva B. Robertson of Java, Virginia. He is also lovingly remembered by his seven sisters: Betty Anderson of Java, VA, Jacqueline Martin (Anthony Martin) of Newark, DE, Samantha Turner (the late George Turner) of Detroit, MI, Stephanie Wiley (Marcelous Wiley) of Newark, DE, Patrice Childress, Rhonda Kassim (Ola Kassim), and Hope Childress, all of Claymont, DE. His three brothers: Orlando Thompson, Sr. (ElaineThompson) of Orlando, FL, Vincent Childress of Claymont, DE, and Jody Childress (Ayanna Childress) of Charlotte, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Forever loved. Forever cherished. Forever remembered.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 656 Blairs Circle, Blairs, Virginia. Minister LeKeshia Ramsey will officiate and Rev. Reginald Carter will serve as Eulogist. Interment will follow in the Riceville Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, 1444 Riceville Road, Java, Virginia.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of J.L. Dodson and Sons Funeral Establishment.

The family is receiving visitors at the home of his wife, Mrs. Ellen Barley, located at 601 Church Road, Java, Virginia.

The family is asked to assemble at the home of his daughter, Ms. Tangela Bowman, located at 477 Granville Drive, Danville, Virginia, at 11:45 a.m. on the day of the service.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed, allowing family and friends near and far to come together in prayer, reflection and remembrance. Please click here at time of service to join in the live stream.

Professional funeral services have been entrusted to the staff of the J.L. Dodson and Sons Funeral Establishment, 447 Old South Main St. Danville, Va., Bishop Jeffrey L. Dodson, Sr., Funeral Director, Operator, Monica W. Martin, Funeral Directress, (434)799-9262.

Online condolences may be registered at www.jldodsonandsons.com. “Our Family Servicing Your Family”